Here’s a success story from Cole’s dad, a past Decker participant and an economist with a PhD:

“Initial attempt to get Cole to change his diaper. (Note: it is nearly impossible to change his diaper if he doesn’t want to.)

Me: I need you to change your diaper

Cole: No. NO! [adds emphasis through eye rolls and stomping]

I remember the listener-focused framework from our training.

Me: Leaving your diaper on too long will give you a rash.

Me: Please come into your bedroom with me and lay down so that I can change your diaper.

Me: If you change your diaper right now, you won’t get a rash and you’ll be much happier.

Me: Come with me.

Cole: OK [with a smile].

Seriously. It really worked! Turns out that Cole is a very discerning customer of Dad’s silly ideas, so I actually have to think about my POV, action and benefit. The more compelling, the more likely it is that Cole will play along.”

From the changing table to the boardroom table, using the Decker Grid™ helps you create a listener-focused message.

We love hearing stories about how you apply the Decker Grid™. When have you successfully influenced someone by shifting your message to be more listener-focused?

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One comment on “Parenting Tip: Grid Your Kids”

Great example, Kelly, to illustrate POV, action and benefit. I’m just now following up notes from our workshop held in Baltimore last week to explore the blog and glad I have.

By the way, I applied lessons learned a brand positioning statement and presentation I was giving the very next day. Revised the final slide to make the position statement more sticky and it did the job.

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